Chapter 2: The World beyond

Lieutenant Hayes took a deep breath, steadying himself as he checked his gear one last time. The cockpit's chaotic descent had left him shaken, but his military training surged through him like a lifeline. With a steady hand, he pulled out a GAU-5A ASDW survival rifle from the back of his ejection seat, and slung the strap over his neck and around his back. He then reviewed the survival vest strapped to his chest. He had to assess his situation after the harrowing crash that had brought him to this bizarre new world.

The twisted wreckage of his jet lay not far from him, a metal carcass that contrasted starkly with the vibrant, alien landscape. As he stood, the sounds of the unfamiliar forest enveloped him—chirping creatures, rustling leaves, and the distant calls of animals he could not identify. The towering trees were unlike anything back on Earth, their trunks thick and gnarled, with leaves that shimmered in a kaleidoscope of colors that defied description. Brightly colored flowers dotted the forest floor, some pulsing with a luminescence that seemed almost magical in the muted light filtering through the canopy.

Hayes took a moment to ground himself, breathing in the cool, damp air. He couldn't afford to panic, not now. Years of military service had taught him that staying calm was paramount. He forced himself to focus on the basics of survival. First, assess injuries. He gingerly felt his body, relieved to find only minor cuts and bruises. He could work with that.

Next, secure gear. He rummaged through his survival vest, ensuring he had the essentials: a first aid kit, a signal mirror, a whistle, and water purification tablets. He mentally checked off his inventory, feeling a flicker of relief when he spotted the fire starter. "At least I'm not completely helpless," he murmured to himself. The radio, however, remained silent. He tucked it back into the vest, cursing under his breath as the static hissed back at him.

With his gear secure, Hayes glanced back toward the wreckage. He needed to check on it. The jet could still hold valuable supplies. As he stepped carefully through the underbrush, he allowed himself a moment to reflect on the stark difference between this world and his own. The air was rich with unfamiliar scents, a blend of earthy dampness and floral sweetness, far removed from the metallic tang of jet fuel and engine oil he was accustomed to.

As he reached the crash site, his heart sank at the sight. The cockpit was crumpled, smoke still curling from the twisted metal. Hayes examined the area cautiously, searching for anything that could aid him. His mind was racing, but he kept his breathing steady. He had to find food, water, and a safe place to hide—immediately. Just as he was about to move, he heard it: the unmistakable sound of wings beating against the air.

His instincts kicked in. Hide. Without thinking, he ducked behind a cluster of thick ferns, his heart pounding in his chest as the noise grew louder. Hayes watched as two enormous figures swooped down from the sky, their massive wings cutting through the air with power and grace as they flew towards the direction of the wreckage.

Recognition hit him like a punch to the gut. It was them—the same dragons he and Buzz had fought moments before. The very same dragons that had sent him spiraling down into this unknown wilderness.

The two SkyWings cautiously flew towards the wreckage, keeping a good distance from the jet as if wary of it. Hayes's heart raced as he watched them circle the remnants of his jet, their scales glinting in the filtered sunlight. One dragon was slightly smaller, her wings quivering with worry while the other, larger and more imposing, seemed to command attention with every powerful beat of his wings.

Hayes strained to hear their conversation, crouched low and peering through the foliage. To his shock, he caught snippets of what they were saying—they were speaking English. It was fragmented and laced with urgency, but it was undeniably the same language he used back on Earth.

"What do you think it is?" the smaller dragon asked, her voice tinged with apprehension. "It just attacked us out of nowhere."

The larger dragon snorted, shaking his head. "It's some sort of metal beast, I'm not sure. I've never seen anything like it. But you saw the way it bled fire and smoke after RedClaw had wounded it. It must be severely injured now that it's just laying there in the ground after the way it crashed." He craned his neck towards the wreckage, his eyes narrowing as he examined the wreckage with caution.

Hayes couldn't believe what he was hearing. These creatures spoke his language, and yet here they were, assessing the wreck of his jet as if it were a living being. He fought to suppress his rising panic, trying to comprehend the implications of their words.

The smaller dragon turned, flicking her tail anxiously. "But what if it can still attack?" She gestured towards the wreckage, hesitating as they approached the jet, clearly nervous.

"Just stay sharp," the larger dragon replied, his tone brusque. "We saw what happened back there. This thing fell a great distance from the sky, although us and the other four never stood a chance against it, at least Redclaw took it down with him. It should be severely injured now, we need to attack it before it recovers."

Hayes watched, heart pounding, as the two dragons began to coordinate their movements, communicating through subtle signals as they circled the jet. They appeared to be preparing to strike.

"On my mark," the larger dragon instructed, his voice low but commanding. Hayes could see the tension in their muscles, the way their wings twitched with the need to take flight.

Then, without warning, they lunged. The larger dragon struck first, clawing at the wreckage with a fierce determination. The metal groaned in protest, and flames burst forth from the damaged engine as if the jet were breathing its last. Hayes recoiled in horror, watching as the dragons tore into what remained of his connection to the Earth.

As the smoke cleared, the larger dragon paused, peering at the jet. "It's dead…" he declared, stepping back with a mixture of relief and dread. "We need to inform Queen Scarlet about this."

The smaller dragon nodded, anxiety etched across her features. "You think she'll believe us? What if she thinks we're just scared of a—"

"She will believe us," the larger dragon interrupted, his voice laced with urgency. "We just faced off against it, and this thing and its companion killed our comrades without breaking a sweat. There seems to be a new race of creatures there past that storm, and they could pose a serious threat to SkyWing territory. We have to report this."

Hayes's mind raced as he listened.

"Let's take it back," the smaller dragon suggested, glancing nervously at the wreck. "Maybe Queen Scarlet can figure out what to do. If this thing was able to defeat Redclaw and the others so easily, who knows what else their kind can do?"

"Agreed," the larger dragon said, determination returning to his voice. "We can't let this opportunity slip away. Grab it; we'll show it to her. This is our chance to warn the others."

With a coordinated effort, the two dragons lifted the wreckage, their powerful claws grasping the twisted metal with surprising delicacy.

"Damn it," he hissed under his breath as they began to ascend, the sky opening up beneath them.

As they flew away, Hayes was left crouching in the foliage, the weight of despair heavy on his shoulders. He clenched his fists, frustration boiling over. He needed to find a way out of this mess—whatever this new world was, he was determined to survive it.

With the sound of their wings fading into the distance, he took a deep breath, steeling himself.

With the sound of their wings fading into the distance, Hayes took a deep breath, steeling himself against the onslaught of fear and confusion that threatened to overwhelm him. He had a mission to complete, and survival was the first order of business. He reminded himself of the survival training they had drilled into him: *Locate shelter. Find food and water. Assess the situation.*

He pushed through the underbrush, scanning the vibrant forest around him. It was lush and alive, the canopy overhead filtering the sunlight into a soft, dappled glow that danced across the forest floor. Tall trees with wide trunks towered above, their leaves whispering secrets in the gentle breeze. Hayes paused to take in his surroundings, noting how some plants looked strangely familiar, reminding him of the oak and maple trees back home in Kansas.

"Maybe I'm just in some unexplored part of Earth," he muttered to himself, though the thought seemed absurd. If that were true, how could they have missed the existence of dragons? He shook his head, trying to clear the disorienting thoughts that swirled within him. No, this was a different world entirely, and he needed to accept that reality.

He pressed on, taking careful steps, making sure to keep his movements quiet. He felt vulnerable here, exposed to whatever dangers lurked in the shadows. *After all, if there were dragons, what other creatures could be hiding in the underbrush?*

As he moved deeper into the forest, he noticed small birds flitting between the branches, their vibrant plumage reminiscent of tropical species he'd seen on nature documentaries. Some sang sweetly, their melodic calls echoing through the trees. Were they friendly? Would they attack? He watched them closely, noting their colors and patterns, as they darted through the foliage.

"Just birds," he reassured himself. "They can't be that dangerous." Yet, the thought of danger still loomed, reminding him to remain alert.

Hayes continued his search, remembering the importance of finding a safe place to set up camp. Eventually, he stumbled upon a rocky outcropping partially concealed by thick undergrowth. It was small, but it would provide some cover from the elements and any curious predators. Best of all, it was close enough to the wreckage that he could keep an eye out for rescue.

After making sure the area was clear, he began to gather materials for a small shelter. Sticks, leaves, and moss formed a makeshift roof that would help shield him from the rain, should it come. With the structure complete, he felt a small sense of accomplishment. It was far from luxurious, but it would keep him hidden and somewhat protected.

Now came the more challenging task—finding food and water. He scanned the forest floor for any signs of a stream or a water source, recalling that most freshwater streams were usually found near higher ground.

Hayes set off again, gripping his rifle at hand as he moved cautiously and listening intently. His boots crunched softly on the underbrush as he navigated the terrain, keenly aware of the need to remain stealthy. After a short hike, he heard the faint sound of trickling water nearby. His heart raced as he followed the sound, his throat dry and aching for a drink.

When he reached the source, he found a clear stream bubbling over smooth stones, surrounded by vibrant greenery. Kneeling down, he cupped his hands and took a cautious sip. The water was cool and refreshing, revitalizing him instantly. "God, that's good," he breathed, grateful for the small blessings in this strange world.

Feeling re-energized, he looked around for edible plants. Hayes recognized some wild berries, their bright colors promising sweetness, and began to gather a handful. The forest was rich with life, and while he couldn't be sure of the safety of everything he found, he had to take calculated risks if he wanted to survive.

As he munched on the berries, he allowed himself a moment to think about his family back home. Images of his kids—laughing, playing in the backyard—flooded his mind. He could almost hear their laughter ringing in his ears, and the pain of separation hit him hard. "Daddy won't be home for awhile, sweeties," he murmured, the words barely escaping his lips before he felt a lump form in his throat. "But I promise I'll be back."

He needed to focus and keep his wits around him. As night approached, he prepared for what lay ahead, ready to face whatever the universe were to throw at him. With a few supplies gathered and a shelter ready, he settled into his rocky nook, looking up at the vast, star-studded sky.

Every twinkling star reminded him of Earth, of home, but also of the possibilities this new world held. As the winds whispered through the trees and the shadows danced around him, Hayes knew he had to stay sharp. Survival was a day-to-day affair, and in this strange land, he was determined to make every moment count.

He closed his eyes, allowing fatigue to wash over him.

General Robert Moore stood at the head of the table in the command center, staring at the array of satellite images and reconnaissance reports. What had initially begun as a routine training mission had escalated into an unprecedented crisis. Lieutenant Hayes, one of the pilots involved, was missing—likely on the other side of what appeared to be a portal leading to an entirely new world. The room was filled with top military and government officials from both the U.S. and Mexico, all grappling with the extraordinary reality they now faced.

Mexican Admiral Alejandro Ramírez sat beside Moore, a grim expression on his face as he reviewed the same images. The collaboration between the two nations had happened quickly, with both understanding that this rift—this portal—was not merely a national issue but a global one. Both sides had mobilized forces to secure the area, but the implications went far beyond initial security concerns.

"We've just completed another round of drone reconnaissance," Colonel Harrison reported as he stood at the front of the room. "The data is coming in slowly, but we've confirmed that this rift doesn't just lead to another place. It leads to an entirely different world—a large landmass, though we haven't determined the exact size yet. Experts are currently analyzing the data, but we're estimating it could be comparable to a continent."

Admiral Ramírez exchanged a glance with his officers, then looked back at General Moore. "And you're certain about the size?"

"We've sent several drones through for reconnaissance," Harrison confirmed, tapping on the screen to display the latest imagery. The room filled with images of rugged mountains, vast plains, and unfamiliar landscapes. "This isn't just a small island or another dimension. This is a whole new world. We've detected various ecosystems, similar to Earth's, but with some significant differences—including large winged creatures."

"Dragons," one of the Mexican naval officers muttered under his breath, earning nods from those present. The reports had already circulated, and while the idea of dragons seemed fantastical, the evidence was undeniable. Buzz, the pilot who had survived the initial engagement, had seen them up close. So had the drones.

General Moore cleared his throat. "Lieutenant Hayes is still unaccounted for, but based on the intel we've gathered, we believe he's somewhere on the other side of this rift. We're treating this as both a rescue operation and a reconnaissance mission. Delta Force, along with Mexican Special Operations, are preparing to deploy as soon as we have more intel."

The room buzzed with quiet discussion, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on everyone present. Admiral Ramírez folded his arms, leaning forward. "And the creatures—these dragons—what do we know so far?"

Harrison clicked to another slide. "From the data collected by our drones, as well as Lieutenant McConnell's debrief, these creatures are highly intelligent and organized. They attacked in a coordinated fashion, displaying tactics similar to military operations. McConnell even reported hearing them communicate—possibly in English, though we haven't confirmed that yet."

"English?" Admiral Ramírez echoed, frowning. "That's… bizarre. But how can we be certain it's English? That sounds way too convenient to be true!"

"We're still investigating," Harrison replied. "But it suggests that these creatures—or whoever controls them—might possess a level of intelligence and technological understanding we didn't anticipate."

Admiral Stevens, head of the U.S. Navy's Gulf operations, spoke up. "We've already moved a carrier group into position. U.S. and Mexican naval patrols are maintaining a secure perimeter around the rift. Nothing's getting in or out without us knowing."

Moore nodded. "Good. We'll need that coverage in case things escalate. Right now, our primary focus is maintaining security while we gather more intel. We need to know exactly what we're dealing with on the other side."

Dr. Lawrence, one of the civilian scientists, raised his hand. "We should also be considering the long-term stability of the portal. We still don't fully understand how it functions or how long it'll remain open. There's a lot of risk involved in sending people through without knowing if they'll be able to come back."

"Agreed," Moore said. "But we don't have a choice. Lieutenant Hayes is out there, and we need to get him back. In the meantime, we'll continue sending drones for further reconnaissance."

Admiral Ramírez looked toward his Mexican counterpart, who nodded his agreement. "We're ready to assist in any way necessary. The Gulf is our shared responsibility, and this situation affects us both."

Moore appreciated the sentiment. "Thank you, Admiral. This is bigger than either of our countries. We need to work together to ensure the safety of our people."

"We also have to consider the political ramifications," Colonel Harrison said. "If this information leaks, we'll have every major nation on the planet trying to gain access to the portal. China, Russia, Europe—they'll all want a piece of the pie."

Moore grimaced. "We can't afford to let this become a global free-for-all. For now, we need to maintain control and keep the information contained. But we'll have to bring our allies into the fold soon enough. This portal could change everything."

Dr. Lawrence chimed in again. "Not just geopolitically, but scientifically as well. We're talking about new ecosystems, new species, perhaps even entirely new forms of energy. The potential here is limitless—but so are the risks."

General Moore exhaled slowly, his gaze returning to the swirling vortex on the screen. "We need to tread carefully. This portal is a gateway to the unknown, and we don't know what lies on the other side. But one thing is certain—we're not the alone in this universe anymore."

In the Oval Office, President Daniel Truman sat behind his desk, papers and reports spread out in front of him. His day had been packed with meetings and briefings on the usual issues—economy, foreign relations, environmental concerns. But when his National Security Advisor, Karen Thompson, entered the room with a grave expression, he knew something out of the ordinary had occurred.

"Mr. President," she began, setting a classified folder on his desk. "There's been an incident in the Gulf of Mexico that demands your immediate attention."

Truman raised an eyebrow. "What kind of incident?"

Thompson hesitated for a moment before continuing. "A U.S. fighter jet was lost in a training exercise. But this isn't just a standard disappearance. We have reason to believe the aircraft may have been taken through a portal of some kind—a rift that's opened just South of Texas' coast, right by the territory in the Gulf. And, well… there's something else. Reports indicate that the jet encountered creatures that—"

"Creatures?" Truman leaned forward, his interest piqued. "What kind of creatures?"

Thompson took a deep breath. "Dragons, sir. Large, winged creatures that match the descriptions of dragons from folklore. And before you dismiss it as fantasy, our remaining pilot has confirmed it. His fighter jets were attacked, and one of our men, Lieutenant Hayes, is missing… likely on the other side of the portal."

For a long moment, the President said nothing. He glanced at the file in front of him, flipping through the pages of reports and satellite images, all of which showed the swirling vortex that had appeared in the Gulf. His brow furrowed, his mind racing to grasp the gravity of what he was being told.

"Dragons," he repeated slowly, sitting back in his chair. "We're talking about actual dragons?"

"Yes, sir," Thompson replied, her tone serious. "The implications are massive. We've already mobilized military forces, working in cooperation with Mexican authorities to secure the area around the portal. But it doesn't stop there."

"What do you mean?" Truman asked, already sensing the larger implications.

Thompson pulled out a new set of satellite images. "This rift isn't just a random anomaly. According to our early analysis, it leads to a completely uncharted world—a continent, possibly as large as South America, filled with vast stretches of untapped resources, new species, and civilizations we've never encountered before. We believe Lieutenant Hayes may be somewhere in this unknown land."

Truman's eyes widened slightly as he studied the images. Uncharted territory. A whole new world. He couldn't deny the rush of intrigue that hit him. A vast land, untouched by modern civilization, potentially ripe with resources that could change the global economic landscape. Oil? Minerals? Agriculture? The possibilities were endless.

But with that opportunity came an equal measure of danger. He could already picture the scramble—if this information went public, the world's superpowers would turn their attention to the portal. Russia. China. Europe. The race for influence, land, and resources would be intense. And that didn't even account for the fact that dragons—actual dragons—might be involved.

Truman rubbed his temples. "This… this is going to cause chaos once the world finds out, Karen. You know as well as I do that other nations will try to get a foothold on the other side. If we're looking at a landmass of this scale, it won't just be a military operation anymore. It's going to turn into a global rush for power, and we'll be right in the middle of it."

"Exactly, Mr. President," Thompson agreed. "Right now, it's a delicate situation. We're keeping it under wraps as best as we can, but we won't be able to hide something like this for long. The moment other countries catch wind of a portal to a new world, especially one filled with land and unknown resources, there's going to be immediate interest."

Truman leaned back in his chair, his mind racing with the possibilities. The weight of it all was sinking in. A new world, potentially as vast as Earth itself. Dragons. Missing personnel. International interest. And worst of all, an impending scramble for dominance.

"We can't let this get out of hand," he said finally. "We need to secure this portal, ensure our people are safe, and establish control over the situation before others get involved. I want the military fully mobilized—work with Mexico to keep this under joint control for now. But once we're ready, we need to start planning for a long-term strategy. And send a message to our allies; they need to be brought into the loop before someone else makes the first move."

"Understood, Mr. President," Thompson replied. "I've already briefed the Secretary of Defense. We're organizing special operations forces to retrieve Lieutenant Hayes and begin gathering information on the other side. We'll also begin working with our intelligence community to monitor international chatter about the rift."

Truman stood up, his expression serious. "We need to act fast. This portal, this new world… it's going to change everything. And if we're not careful, it could spark a conflict the likes of which we've never seen. Make sure we're ready, Karen. This is bigger than just one missing man. It's a whole new frontier."

Thompson nodded. "Yes, sir. We'll take every precaution. But you're right—this could be the beginning of something unprecedented."

As Thompson left the room to relay orders, Reynolds sat back down, staring at the images of the portal once more. His mind flickered to Lieutenant Hayes, lost somewhere on the other side of the rift. He couldn't shake the feeling that this was only the beginning.

Lieutenant Hayes awoke with a start, the remnants of sleep fading quickly as adrenaline coursed through his veins. He rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the stiffness there as he recalled the events that had led him to this strange new world. The memories of the fiery dogfight and the crash echoed in his mind, and as he pushed himself upright, the rustling leaves outside his makeshift shelter caught his attention.

He took a moment to gather himself, reaching for his survival gear. The first priority was ensuring he was hidden from any potential threats. After a few deep breaths to steady his nerves, reaching for his rifle that lay to his side, he peered out from his shelter.

At first, he thought he was imagining things, but as he squinted into the dimming twilight, a thin plume of smoke curled into the air a short distance away. It was unmistakable—someone had built a fire. Curiosity and caution warred within him, but his instincts as a soldier urged him to investigate.

Creeping out of his shelter, he navigated the underbrush silently, moving closer to the source of the smoke. The flickering light of the fire danced against the trees, illuminating a small clearing. What he found there sent shockwaves through his mind.

A group of humans was gathered around the campfire, their faces illuminated by the warm glow. They were cooking something over the flames, but Hayes was too focused on their appearance to notice what was being prepared. They seemed to be a mix of different backgrounds—African and South American.

His heart raced as he noticed how ragged they looked; dirt smeared across their skin and clothes that hung loosely on their frames. They seemed exhausted, worn down as if they'd been on the run for days. He could see bows and arrows leaning against the nearby trees, along with a few swords that looked hand-forged, yet they appeared hastily made.

Two boys, a girl and an older man comprised the group, their ages to be ranging from about sixteen to eighteen, and the older man seeming to be younger than Hayes, early-mid twenties maybe, Hayes estimated.

Two boys were engaged in cooking while the girl sat by and watched them, her eyes looking hungrily into the fire. The older man stood guard outside their campfire, his bow drawn and eyes scanning the treeline. They seemed tense, whispering amongst themselves.

"Bandits," Hayes thought instinctively, but something felt off about this group. They didn't act like seasoned criminals; instead, they appeared frightened and desperate.

He crouched low, remaining hidden behind the brush, and continued to observe. As he watched them, he noted their interactions. The guard would occasionally relax his grip on the bow, glancing back at the others and the meal they prepared with a mix of worry and hunger.

Half a dozen sacks of grains and leaves were laid out, seeming to be ingredients the boys were to put into the makeshift bowl as they tended to the fire. The scent wafting through the air made his stomach grumble, a stark reminder of how long it had been since he had eaten. He felt a twinge of guilt watching them, but he knew he needed to remain cautious. They were the first humans he had seen in this bizarre world, and he couldn't take any chances.

Suddenly, the man on guard tensed up, his body going rigid as he began to frantically speak to the others in a language Hayes wasn't able to make out over all their commotion. The three at the fire dropped their tasks, their eyes wide with fear as they gathered their belongings in a hurry.

Panic surged through Hayes as he squinted deeper into the forest, and what he saw sent a jolt of terror down his spine. A large figure moved swiftly through the underbrush, its shape just visible in the shadows. A flicker of fire illuminated their scales, and Hayes recognized it instantly: dragon.

He felt his heart race, the realization crashing over him. The same creatures that had attacked his jet were now advancing toward these children.

"Move!" he wanted to shout, but he was frozen in place, an observer in a terrifying scenario. As the scavengers scrambled to collect their things, Hayes weighed his options. Should he reveal himself to these humans or remain hidden, preserving his own safety?

The man with the bow caught a glimpse of something in the trees, his eyes widening with alarm. Hayes held his breath, hoping that the group would react in time. They needed to get out of there.

As the dragon closed in, the air thickened with tension. He gritted his teeth, his mind racing. The choice felt impossibly heavy, and as the dragon's snarl echoed through the trees, he realized that time was running out.

The man standing guard, his heart pounding in his chest, raised his bow with a mix of fear and determination. His hands trembled slightly as he aimed at the approaching dragon, instinct kicking in despite the overwhelming odds. With a deep breath, he let the arrow fly, the shaft whistling through the air as it shot toward the dragon's neck.

To Hayes's horror, the arrow struck true but barely penetrated the dragon's thick scales, bouncing off with a dull thud. The dragon—a red and bronze one, similar but distinctly different from the ones Hayes had encountered—snarled, her eyes narrowing at the children. "Finally found you, little pests," she growled, her voice laced with irritation. "I hate doing this job."

The man flinched, desperately nocking another arrow, but before he could let it fly, the dragon lunged forward. With a swift, powerful swipe of her claw, she struck the man, sending him crashing against a tree trunk, blood spraying from the deep gash across his front.

"Oops," the dragon murmured to herself, her expression shifting from anger to surprise. "Queen Scarlet wants you alive for the arena." She cursed herself, frustration evident in her tone. "Stupid mistake."

Hayes watched in horror as the man crumpled to the ground like a doll, motionless. Panic surged through him, mingled with a fierce anger that threatened to boil over. The other two boys, now visibly shaken but fueled by desperation, sprang into action, grabbing their swords and moving to protect the girl behind them.

"Come on, I need you three alive!" the dragon growled, her sharp claws stretching as she advanced toward the remaining children, who stood their ground, swords trembling in their hands.

In that moment, Hayes's heart raced with a protective instinct. He couldn't just watch anymore. These kids were facing a creature that could end their lives in an instant, and he had to do something.

He quickly surveyed his surroundings, formulating a plan. The dragon was focused on the children, and if he could remain hidden in the shadows, perhaps he could catch her by surprise. He recalled the rifle tucked between his arms—the GAU-5A ASDW, but he wasn't sure if it would do any good against a creature like that. He needed a strategy.

He glanced back at the children, noting their fear but also their bravery. If he could get rid of the dragon, they might have a chance to escape. With the bow and arrow proving ineffective, he knew he had to aim for something more vital.

His focus shifted to the dragon's eyes—large and fierce, but also vulnerable. He crept further into the underbrush, inching closer to the clearing without making a sound. He could hear the dragon's snarls and the children's frantic whispers.

As he positioned himself behind a thick trunk, he steadied his breath. "Alright, Hayes," he whispered to himself, "this is it. Just like the range. Aim for the eye. One shot."

He steadied his hold on his rifle, feeling the weight of it in his hands. It was a small comfort in the face of such overwhelming danger, but he had to trust his training. He took a deep breath and steadied himself, squinting through the sights as he focused on the dragon's left eye.

The Skywing prowled closer, and as she lunged forward, the boys shouted nonsense desperate cries, trying to draw her attention. they yelled, swords raised in a show of defiance.

The dragon paused, intrigued but unafraid. "Foolish scavengers," she hissed, "you think you can stop me? With those pointy sticks? Ha! I can't understand why the Queen takes interests in pests like you."

As she drew closer, Hayes took his shot. The gun fired, the crack of the shot echoing through the trees. He felt a rush of adrenaline as the bullet flew toward the dragon, and for a fleeting moment, time slowed.

The dragon's head jerked as the bullet struck her eye, a guttural roar escaping her throat. She stumbled back, pawing at her face in shock and pain, giving Hayes the moment he desperately needed.

"Run!" he shouted, urgency lacing his voice as he stepped into the clearing, drawing attention to himself and frantically waving his arm at the children. The children, wide-eyed with astonishment, hesitated for a brief moment before scrambling to their feet.

Hayes took off into the dense underbrush, adrenaline fueling his legs as he urged them to follow him. The forest closed in around them, branches whipping at his arms and legs as they raced forward.

They ran for what felt like an eternity, the sounds of the dragon's fury gradually fading into the distance. Finally, they came to a halt in a small clearing, out of breath and panting heavily. Hayes leaned against a tree, his heart racing as he looked around, trying to orient himself. The trees were thick, the underbrush dense, and he had no idea where he was in relation to his shelter.

"Shit," he muttered under his breath, feeling a surge of panic rise within him. He was lost, utterly disoriented, and had no way to find his way back to the crash site.

As he leaned against the rough bark, he turned his attention to the three children, who were watching him with a mixture of curiosity and wariness. The girl, who upon closer inspection, appeared to be around twelve or thirteen, had dark hair and wide eyes that betrayed her exhaustion. The two boys, slightly older and more rugged, stood protectively at her sides.

"Are you all alright?" Hayes asked, trying to keep his voice steady. "Do you understand me?"

To his surprise, one of the boys, a lean figure with a wary expression, replied in an accented English that caught Hayes off guard. "Who are you? I've never seen anybody like you before-" he said while eyeing up and down Hayes's clothes. "What was that thing you used against the dragon?"

Hayes blinked, flabbergasted by the absurdity of it all. "You speak English?" he managed to ask, pushing the implications of that revelation to the back of his mind. He quickly took out his gun, holding it up for them to see.

"This is a gun," he explained, glancing at the boy's expression of curiosity as he inspected the weapon. "It shoots out these little pellets called bullets. I used it to hurt the dragon." The children leaned in closer, their wariness replaced by intrigue as they examined the strange object.

"What are you doing out here?" he continued, his concern growing. "Why were you running?"

Before any of them could answer, the girl's stomach let out a loud growl, a pitiful sound that made her cheeks flush with embarrassment. Hayes realized then just how malnourished she looked, her ribs visible beneath her tattered clothing. She appeared younger up close, with an innocence that contrasted sharply with the harshness of their surroundings.

The boys exchanged glances before one of them, the more muscular of the two, despite being thin himself, spoke up. "We've been on the run from dragons hunting us from our village for a while now. We haven't eaten in days."

The weight of their situation settled heavily on Hayes's chest. The thought of these kids being hunted by dragons was sickening, and the fact that they had no food was heartbreaking. He glanced around the forest, mentally weighing his options. Searching for food would take time, and the last thing he wanted was to risk the dragon returning while they were vulnerable.

"Alright," he said, "I have some rations in my survival vest. It's not great, but it'll keep you going for now."

He reached into his vest, pulling out a few vacuum-sealed packs of tasteless emergency food. As he handed them over, the kids' eyes widened in surprise and confusion.

"What's that?" One of the boys asked, pointing at the silver packaged meals he held in his hand.

"Erm, these things are energy bars. Though I'm sure you don't know what those are- they're like sticky nuts with a lot of protein and calories in them-" Hayes looks up at the kids, seeing how they looked at him blankly as he explained. "Ah you know what, just give it a try."

Hayes rips open each of the bars and hands them unpeeled from their packaging to each of the kids. The wary children gratefully take them, eyeing the bars with hunger as they inspected it.

"Thank you," the girl whispered, her voice barely above a whisper as she took a big bite from the bar. The boys followed suit, devouring the sticky bar as though it were a feast. But much to their surprise, the bar was surprisingly sweet, like honey, and was filled with a rich flavor of nuts and oats, nothing like they've ever tasted before.

The children finished the bars in a matter of seconds. Once they had settled in, Hayes took the lead in setting up a small camp in a safe area around a large tree, using the underbrush for cover. He felt a surge of responsibility for the kids, and he knew they needed a plan.

"Alright, while you take a well deserved rest, I'm going to see if I can find something else for you," Hayes said, trying to keep his tone upbeat. "Stay close, and don't wander off."

As he moved into the forest, he kept a vigilant eye on his surroundings. The memories of the dragon's roar still echoed in his mind, and he knew they couldn't afford to be careless.

He scoured the area, searching for anything edible, foraging for nuts, berries, or roots that might provide sustenance. It felt surreal, wandering through this strange, otherworldly forest, where danger lurked around every corner, and yet he was compelled to help these kids.

After some time, he returned to the makeshift camp, his arms full of foraged goodies. The children were still huddled together, their eyes lighting up as he approached. He set the finds down, sharing a smile with them.

"I found some berries and nuts," he said, arranging the food. "They should be safe to eat. Just take it easy; I'm not a foraging expert."

They wasted no time, picking through the fruits and nuts, their expressions shifting from hunger to relief. As they munched on their newfound bounty.

"Thank you," the girl said again, her eyes reflecting gratitude. "We thought we were alone."

"You're not alone anymore," Hayes reassured them, feeling a sense of purpose ignite within him. "We'll get through this together."

The girl, with sunken cheeks and dark circles under her eyes, glanced at her brothers. The taller and more muscular boy, who looked to be around fifteen, nodded slowly, still processing the shock of what had happened. The younger boy, no more than 13, clutched a crude sword tightly, his knuckles white against the grip. Hayes took a deep breath, forcing himself to shift his focus to their immediate needs.

"What are your names?" he asked gently, trying to break the ice.

"I'm Lucas," the eldest boy replied, his voice cracking slightly. "This is Maria," he gestured to the girl, "and that's Diego." The youngest looked up at him, eyes brimming with a mix of gratitude and lingering fear.

Hayes smiled, hoping to bring them some comfort. "It's nice to meet you all. My name is Jake. Can you tell me what you were planning to do next?"

Lucas exchanged a glance with his siblings before answering. "We were heading south. There's a place—a fortress—built by humans. Dad described it as an indestructible city, somewhere the dragons can't invade." His voice carried a hint of hope, but it was laced with the weight of loss.

Hayes raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A fortress? Do you think it really exists?"

Maria nodded slowly. "Our father has heard stories of it from travellers. After our village was destroyed, we thought it would be the best place to go. We hoped it would be safe."

Hayes's heart sank at the mention of their village's destruction. "What happened?" he asked softly.

"The dragons," Diego replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "They came for sport. They… they killed our mother, our friends… and they just killed our dad." His eyes filled with tears, and Hayes felt a surge of sorrow for them. The boy they had lost was more than a comrade; he was family.

Hayes felt a lump in his throat. "I'm so sorry for your loss. It must be hard for you all," he said, reaching out to place a comforting hand on Diego's shoulder. "You're brave for surviving this long."

Lucas took a deep breath, steeling himself. "We don't know much about the dragons. Just that they're bigger than us and that they hunt us for sport. They have kingdoms all over this world, but we don't know where they are."

Hayes's mind raced at the implications. A society of dragons? He had to know more. "Do you think there are more humans out there? Like the ones in the fortress?"

Maria shrugged, a flicker of hope igniting in her eyes. "Maybe. We were told there are other humans, but we didn't meet any before… before everything happened." She glanced down, tears pooling in her eyes. "We thought we were one of the only ones left."

They fell silent for a moment, each lost in their thoughts. Hayes watched them, his heart aching. It was a surreal moment—he was in a world of dragons, and these children had just lost their mother and now their father. He could see the pain etched on their faces, the raw grief of losing someone they loved.

"Do you want to take a moment?" he asked gently, knowing they needed it. They huddled closer together, and he sat with them in the quiet of the forest. Lucas wrapped an arm around Maria, who rested her head against his shoulder, and Diego wiped his eyes with the back of his hand.

"We should have been able to help him," Lucas murmured, anger and sorrow intertwining in his voice. "I should've been the one guarding, he hasn't slept for days, he was tired, I should have insisted."

"No," Maria interjected fiercely, looking up at him. "It wasn't your fault. We couldn't have known. We were running, and he was just trying to keep us safe."

Hayes felt a surge of protectiveness over the children, their bond palpable. They were stronger together, even in grief. "He was brave," Hayes said, trying to offer some solace. "You all were. You kept each other safe."

After a moment, Diego spoke up again, his voice stronger now. "What will you do? Where do you come from anyway? I've never seen someone with such pale skin like yours before."

Hayes raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the question but also wondering how he should respond to it, the truth hovering on the tip of his tongue. He knew he could reveal that he was from another world, but that seemed too far-fetched. Instead, he decided to adapt his story. "Well. people come in all kinds of colours, George," he said gently. "I guess where—the village I'm from, a lot of folks have lighter skin like mine because of the weather. Not much sun where I grew up, so we don't tan much like you I suppose. My village was attacked by dragons too, I got lost in the process trying to escape a couple of them. Now I'm trying to find my way back to my family."

The children exchanged glances, their expressions shifting from shock to sympathy.

"Did they get away?" Maria asked, her voice a whisper as she looked at him with wide eyes.

"I… I hope so," Hayes replied, avoiding her gaze. "I just need to find them."

Lucas furrowed his brow. "Maybe you should come with us to the fortress. If the dragons attacked your village, maybe your family ran away there too."

"Maybe they are," he said, nodding slowly. Internally, he weighed the pros and cons. If there were more people at this fortress, perhaps they could help him understand this world better. He could also keep an eye on these kids on their way there, ensuring their safety.

"Yeah," Hayes said, trying to inject confidence into his voice. "That sounds like a good plan. We should stick together. It's safer that way."

"Okay!" Diego said, his face warming up under the stream of tears. We've been trying to get there for days now."

Hayes nodded. He needed to protect these children and ensure they reached the fortress safely before he could even think about going back to the crash site. With that plan solidifying in his mind.

"Lead the way," he encouraged, watching as the children rallied together, their spirits momentarily lifted by the prospect of safety and hope. Lucas took the lead, glancing back occasionally to check if Hayes was following.

As they moved through the dense foliage, Hayes took note of their surroundings. The forest felt alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls. He walked beside the children, keeping pace with them as they navigated the underbrush.

"Are there many dragons?" Hayes asked, hoping to learn more as they walked.

Lucas shook his head. "We don't know how many there are, but they pass nearby our village a lot. Sometimes, it's just one, but they usually travel in groups. That's why we've been hiding."

Hayes nodded, understanding their fear. He felt that same fear himself, but he masked it. "Well, we'll stick together," he reiterated. "If we come across any more dragons, we'll face them together. You've already shown you're brave."

They trudged on, the air thick with anticipation and uncertainty. Hayes tried to quell the rising anxiety within him. He needed to focus on the immediate goal—getting the children to the fortress, but sometimes his thoughts drifted to that of his family back home.

Hours passed as they traversed the rugged terrain, and as the sun dipped lower in the sky, Hayes noticed a change in the atmosphere. The trees thickened, creating an almost eerie twilight. Shadows loomed larger, and the path became more challenging. The children kept a steady pace, but he could see the exhaustion etched into their faces.

"Let's take a break," Hayes suggested, sensing their fatigue. Hayes settled on area covered by large trees that blocked them from view from above, the fading light casting long shadows on the ground.

As they rested, Hayes pulled out the rations from his survival vest, sharing the protein bars with the children. They accepted it eagerly.

"What's your village like?" Lucas asked, his mouth full. "Do you have a family there?"

"It's a small village, surrounded by forests like these," Hayes said, trying to envision it in his mind. "We have a strong community, and everyone helps each other. My wife and my two little girls… they're good people."

Diego frowned. "Do you think they're safe? With all the dragons?"

"I hope so," Hayes replied, "But I'll find them, I'm sure."

As the children finished their food, Hayes noticed the heaviness still lingering in their hearts, especially regarding their father's death. "You can talk about him if you want," Hayes offered softly. "It might help."

Lucas exchanged glances with Maria and Diego before he spoke. "Well dad, He was always looking out for us. He taught me how to shoot a bow, and he was really good at it. I… I should have listened to him better..."

Tears glimmered in Maria's eyes. "He told us to run. He didn't want us to get hurt."

"We'll honor him," Diego added, his voice steadying. "We'll make it to the indestructible city. It's what he would have wanted."

Hayes nodded, feeling the weight of their loss. "We will, and we'll keep his memory alive. Your father was very strong and brave, and so are you all."

As the twilight deepened into night, Hayes sensed the fatigue settling into the children. "You all need to get some rest," he urged gently. "I'll keep watch. Just try to sleep. You'll need your strength for the journey ahead."

The children exchanged weary glances, then settled onto the ground, using fallen leaves and small branches as makeshift pillows. Hayes watched as they curled up together for warmth, their small bodies huddled close. He felt a flicker of hope seeing them resting, even amidst the uncertainty.

Once they were settled, Hayes took a position a few yards away, leaning against a sturdy tree trunk. He kept his eyes peeled on the surrounding forest, alert to any movement or sounds that might signal danger. The leaves rustled softly in the night breeze, creating a soothing backdrop that contrasted with the turmoil in his mind.

He gazed up at the stars twinkling above, the vastness of the night sky reminding him of home. Thoughts of his family flooded his mind—his wife, his two little daughters. He imagined them searching for him, worry etched across their faces. What if the rescuers had already arrived and seen the crash site but hadn't found him? Would they assume he was lost forever?

His heart ached at the thought. He hoped they were safe, that they were still looking for him. He longed to return, to wrap his arms around them and reassure them that he was okay. But right now, he was here, in this strange world, with three vulnerable children who had just lost their parents.

Hayes' thoughts drifted back to the dragons—the fear they inspired, the devastation they wrought. He felt a surge of anger at the creatures that had upended these children's lives. How could something so majestic be so deadly?

The forest was quiet now, save for the occasional rustle of wildlife. He shifted his position, adjusting his grip on his weapon. He promised himself he wouldn't let anything happen to these kids. They had faced unimaginable loss already, and it was his responsibility to keep them safe.

As the night deepened, Hayes allowed himself to close his eyes for just a moment, the weariness creeping in. But he forced himself to remain alert, knowing that sleep could come later. He thought about their journey to the fortress and the hope it might bring them. The kids needed a protector, and he would be that for them—no matter what it took.